Hinohara ( 檜原村 , Hinohara-mura ) is a village located in West Tokyo , the western portion of Tokyo Prefecture , Japan . As of 1 April 2021, the village had an estimated population of 2,101, and a population density of 20 persons per km. The total area of the village is 105.41 square kilometres (40.70 sq mi). It is the only administrative unit left in the non-insular area of Tokyo that is still classified as a village .
36-699: Hinohara lies in the mountainous upper reaches of the Akigawa , a tributary of the Tama River . The highest point is the summit of Mount Mitō at 1528 m. 93% of its area is forest. Motoshuku, at the confluence of the north and south branches of the Akigawa, is the center of the village and is where the village offices are located. Mountains in Hinohara include Shōtō (990 m), Ichimichi (795 m), Kariyose (687 m), Usuki (842), and Ōdake (1267 m). The name Hinohara means
72-520: A comprehensive picture of this captivating destination. ## Geographical Features Akigawa Lake, also known as Akigawa Reservoir, is an artificial lake created by the Akigawa Dam. The lake spans approximately 2.5 kilometers in length and covers an area of about 1.2 square kilometers. It is surrounded by the lush greenery of the Oku-Tama mountains, which provide a stunning backdrop and contribute to
108-404: A comprehensive picture of this captivating destination. ## Geographical Features Akigawa Lake, also known as Akigawa Reservoir, is an artificial lake created by the Akigawa Dam. The lake spans approximately 2.5 kilometers in length and covers an area of about 1.2 square kilometers. It is surrounded by the lush greenery of the Oku-Tama mountains, which provide a stunning backdrop and contribute to
144-612: A directly elected mayor and a unicameral village council of nine members. The village has 57 employees. Hinohara, collectively with the municipalities of Akiruno, Fussa, Hamura, Hinode, Mizuho and Okutama, contributes two members to the Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly. In terms of national politics, the village is part of Tokyo 25th district of the lower house of the Diet of Japan . The principal industries of Hinohara are forestry and timber production. These days it
180-459: A popular spot for fishing. The forests around the lake are home to numerous bird species, mammals, and insects, contributing to the area's rich biodiversity. The presence of diverse plant species, ranging from ferns and mosses to flowering plants, enhances the ecological value of the region. The Oku-Tama mountains, with their dense vegetation, act as a natural reservoir, regulating water flow and preventing soil erosion. This ecological balance ensures
216-459: A popular spot for fishing. The forests around the lake are home to numerous bird species, mammals, and insects, contributing to the area's rich biodiversity. The presence of diverse plant species, ranging from ferns and mosses to flowering plants, enhances the ecological value of the region. The Oku-Tama mountains, with their dense vegetation, act as a natural reservoir, regulating water flow and preventing soil erosion. This ecological balance ensures
252-533: A reliable water supply but also generated hydroelectric power, contributing to the region's economic growth. The creation of the lake led to the displacement of several small villages, and the local population had to adapt to the changes brought about by the dam's construction. Despite these challenges, the lake has become an integral part of the community, offering various benefits, including flood control, water storage, and recreational opportunities. ## Cultural Importance Akigawa Lake holds cultural significance for
288-533: A reliable water supply but also generated hydroelectric power, contributing to the region's economic growth. The creation of the lake led to the displacement of several small villages, and the local population had to adapt to the changes brought about by the dam's construction. Despite these challenges, the lake has become an integral part of the community, offering various benefits, including flood control, water storage, and recreational opportunities. ## Cultural Importance Akigawa Lake holds cultural significance for
324-402: A unique destination that offers something for everyone. Whether one seeks adventure, relaxation, or a deeper connection with nature, Akigawa Lake provides an enchanting escape that leaves a lasting impression on all who visit. As conservation efforts continue to safeguard its beauty and ecological balance, Akigawa Lake will remain a cherished gem for generations to come. Akigawa Lake, situated in
360-402: A unique destination that offers something for everyone. Whether one seeks adventure, relaxation, or a deeper connection with nature, Akigawa Lake provides an enchanting escape that leaves a lasting impression on all who visit. As conservation efforts continue to safeguard its beauty and ecological balance, Akigawa Lake will remain a cherished gem for generations to come. The Akigawa flows through
396-426: A unique perspective. Fishing is another popular activity, with designated areas around the lake where enthusiasts can try their luck at catching various fish species. Hiking and nature walks are also prominent activities in the area, with numerous trails winding through the surrounding forests and mountains. These trails offer varying levels of difficulty, accommodating both casual walkers and experienced hikers. One of
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#1732794055556432-426: A unique perspective. Fishing is another popular activity, with designated areas around the lake where enthusiasts can try their luck at catching various fish species. Hiking and nature walks are also prominent activities in the area, with numerous trails winding through the surrounding forests and mountains. These trails offer varying levels of difficulty, accommodating both casual walkers and experienced hikers. One of
468-458: A vibrant tapestry of colors during the autumn months. The serene waters of the lake reflect the changing hues of the seasons, offering a visual spectacle that attracts nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. ## Ecological Significance Akigawa Lake and its surrounding ecosystem play a vital role in maintaining biodiversity in the region. The lake supports various aquatic species, including fish such as rainbow trout and ayu (sweetfish), making it
504-458: A vibrant tapestry of colors during the autumn months. The serene waters of the lake reflect the changing hues of the seasons, offering a visual spectacle that attracts nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. ## Ecological Significance Akigawa Lake and its surrounding ecosystem play a vital role in maintaining biodiversity in the region. The lake supports various aquatic species, including fish such as rainbow trout and ayu (sweetfish), making it
540-507: Is 2091 mm with September as the wettest month. The temperatures are highest on average in August, at around 23.2 °C, and lowest in January, at around 0.3 °C. Per Japanese census data, the population of Hinohara has been decreasing since the 1950s, and is now less than half of what it was a century ago. The area of present-day Hinohara was part of ancient Musashi Province . In
576-513: Is a river in Japan . The Aki River flows west of Tokyo Metropolitan Area . It is a major tributary of the Tama River , The Japanese name, 秋川, means "Autumn River." The name Akigawa may seem strange for some people as kawa/gawa 川 in Japanese means river so people may think the name should be Aki river, but that is wrong, because the names of lakes in Japanese usually have gawa at the end of
612-553: Is bus. Scheduled bus service is available from Musashi-Itsukaichi Station on the JR East Itsukaichi Line . Hinohara has no national expressways or national highways. Tokyo Routes 33, 205, and 206 carry vehicular traffic. Aki River 35°43′00″N 139°19′21″E / 35.716737°N 139.322396°E / 35.716737; 139.322396 The Aki River (also, the Akigawa River )
648-824: Is not as active as it used to be, but some young people are trying to run a new forestry company. Recently, the quarrying industry has been used to mine stones from mountains. Also, many construction companies also receive public works orders. In sunny areas on the mountain slopes, potatoes and konjaku are grown. Wasabi , mushrooms and cyclamen are also grown there. In addition, Hinohara has many guest houses, inns, campsites, fishing grounds, hot springs, souvenir shops, and restaurants. These are service industries for tourists who come in search of abundant nature. The village has one public elementary school, Hinohara Elementary School (檜原小学校), and one public junior high school, Hinohara Junior High School (檜原中学校). Hinohara has no passenger railway service. The main form of public transportation
684-471: The area's tranquil ambiance. The Akigawa River, a tributary of the Tama River, feeds the lake, ensuring a continuous supply of fresh water. The lake's elevation, combined with its relatively moderate climate, creates an environment conducive to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The surrounding forests are predominantly composed of deciduous trees, such as maple and oak, which transform the landscape into
720-412: The area's tranquil ambiance. The Akigawa River, a tributary of the Tama River, feeds the lake, ensuring a continuous supply of fresh water. The lake's elevation, combined with its relatively moderate climate, creates an environment conducive to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The surrounding forests are predominantly composed of deciduous trees, such as maple and oak, which transform the landscape into
756-475: The field or forest of Chamaecyparis obtusa . Formerly the trees were cut down to provide timber to build wooden structures in Edo . Kanagawa Prefecture Tokyo Metropolis Yamanashi Prefecture Hinohara has a humid subtropical climate (Köppen Cfa ) characterized by warm summers and cool winters with light to no snowfall. The average annual temperature in Hinohara is 11.8 °C. The average annual rainfall
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#1732794055556792-505: The importance of conservation have also been undertaken, with educational programs and guided tours available for visitors. These initiatives aim to foster a deeper appreciation for the natural environment and encourage responsible behavior among tourists and locals alike. ## Conclusion Akigawa Lake is a testament to the harmonious coexistence of nature, culture, and human development. Its stunning geographical features, rich biodiversity, historical significance, and cultural importance make it
828-505: The importance of conservation have also been undertaken, with educational programs and guided tours available for visitors. These initiatives aim to foster a deeper appreciation for the natural environment and encourage responsible behavior among tourists and locals alike. ## Conclusion Akigawa Lake is a testament to the harmonious coexistence of nature, culture, and human development. Its stunning geographical features, rich biodiversity, historical significance, and cultural importance make it
864-427: The local population and visitors alike. The lake and its surroundings have inspired countless artists, poets, and writers who have captured its beauty and tranquility in their works. The changing seasons at Akigawa Lake are often celebrated through traditional festivals and events that highlight the area's natural splendor. One of the most notable cultural events is the annual Akigawa Lake Fireworks Festival, held during
900-427: The local population and visitors alike. The lake and its surroundings have inspired countless artists, poets, and writers who have captured its beauty and tranquility in their works. The changing seasons at Akigawa Lake are often celebrated through traditional festivals and events that highlight the area's natural splendor. One of the most notable cultural events is the annual Akigawa Lake Fireworks Festival, held during
936-450: The most popular routes is the trail leading to the summit of Mount Mitake, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding landscape. For those seeking relaxation, the lakeside offers several picnic spots and rest areas where visitors can unwind and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. The availability of camping facilities and cabins provides an opportunity for extended stays, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in
972-450: The most popular routes is the trail leading to the summit of Mount Mitake, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding landscape. For those seeking relaxation, the lakeside offers several picnic spots and rest areas where visitors can unwind and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. The availability of camping facilities and cabins provides an opportunity for extended stays, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in
1008-523: The name. Akigawa Lake, situated in the western part of Tokyo, Japan, is a hidden gem that offers an enchanting blend of natural beauty, cultural significance, and recreational opportunities. Nestled in the mountainous region of Akiruno City, this picturesque lake serves as a serene escape from the bustling metropolis. This essay delves into the various aspects of Akigawa Lake, including its geographical features, ecological significance, historical context, cultural importance, and recreational activities, painting
1044-456: The natural beauty of Akigawa Lake. ## Conservation Efforts Recognizing the ecological and cultural importance of Akigawa Lake, various conservation efforts have been implemented to preserve its natural beauty and biodiversity. Local authorities, in collaboration with environmental organizations, have initiated programs to monitor water quality, protect wildlife habitats, and promote sustainable tourism practices. Efforts to raise awareness about
1080-456: The natural beauty of Akigawa Lake. ## Conservation Efforts Recognizing the ecological and cultural importance of Akigawa Lake, various conservation efforts have been implemented to preserve its natural beauty and biodiversity. Local authorities, in collaboration with environmental organizations, have initiated programs to monitor water quality, protect wildlife habitats, and promote sustainable tourism practices. Efforts to raise awareness about
1116-477: The post- Meiji Restoration cadastral reform of July 22, 1878, the area became part of Nishitama District in Kanagawa Prefecture . The village of Hinohara was created on April 1, 1889 with the establishment of the modern municipalities system. Nishitama District was transferred to the administrative control of Tokyo Metropolis on April 1, 1893. Hinohara has a mayor-council form of government with
Hinohara - Misplaced Pages Continue
1152-587: The summer. This festival attracts thousands of visitors who gather to witness a spectacular display of fireworks that light up the night sky, reflecting off the lake's surface. The festival is a testament to the deep connection between the local community and the lake, showcasing the harmonious relationship between nature and culture. ## Recreational Activities Akigawa Lake offers a wide range of recreational activities that cater to diverse interests. The lake's calm waters provide an ideal setting for boating and kayaking, allowing visitors to explore its scenic beauty from
1188-587: The summer. This festival attracts thousands of visitors who gather to witness a spectacular display of fireworks that light up the night sky, reflecting off the lake's surface. The festival is a testament to the deep connection between the local community and the lake, showcasing the harmonious relationship between nature and culture. ## Recreational Activities Akigawa Lake offers a wide range of recreational activities that cater to diverse interests. The lake's calm waters provide an ideal setting for boating and kayaking, allowing visitors to explore its scenic beauty from
1224-504: The sustainability of the lake and its surroundings, making it a crucial component of the local environment. ## Historical Context The history of Akigawa Lake is intertwined with the development of the Akigawa Dam, which was constructed in the mid-20th century to address the increasing demand for water and electricity in the Tokyo metropolitan area. The dam, completed in 1957, was a significant engineering feat of its time. It not only provided
1260-452: The sustainability of the lake and its surroundings, making it a crucial component of the local environment. ## Historical Context The history of Akigawa Lake is intertwined with the development of the Akigawa Dam, which was constructed in the mid-20th century to address the increasing demand for water and electricity in the Tokyo metropolitan area. The dam, completed in 1957, was a significant engineering feat of its time. It not only provided
1296-485: The western part of Tokyo, Japan, is a hidden gem that offers an enchanting blend of natural beauty, cultural significance, and recreational opportunities. Nestled in the mountainous region of Akiruno City, this picturesque lake serves as a serene escape from the bustling metropolis. This essay delves into the various aspects of Akigawa Lake, including its geographical features, ecological significance, historical context, cultural importance, and recreational activities, painting
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